Foreign Relations of the United States, 1969–1976, Volume E–10, Documents on American Republics, 1969–1972

496. Memorandum From the Executive Secretary (Eliot) to the President’s Assistant for National Security Affairs (Kissinger)¹ ²

Washington, June 9, 1970

Subject:

• Nicaraguan President’s Desire to Receive a Presidential Invitation to Visit the United States

On May 25 Nicaraguan Ambassador Guillermo Sevilla-Sacasa asked the Acting Secretary to bring to the attention of the President the fact that President Anastasio Somoza of Nicaragua would like to receive a presidential invitation to visit the United States.

The only reason we might want to accommodate President Somoza would be to avoid a possible affront to the chief executive of a close ally which has traditionally supported U.S. positions in international forums. On the negative side, Somoza is considered by many Americans, both liberals and conservatives, to be a dictator who runs his nation as a feudal estate. As a result, we could expect an adverse reaction in many quarters in the United States, as well as in Latin America if he were to receive a presidential invitation.

Also, we have indications that President Somoza is toying with the idea of continuing in office beyond the expiration of his term in 1972 despite a constitutional ban on immediate re-election. It is likely that he would exploit a White House invitation by insinuating to his countrymen that he has President Nixon’s backing if he does decide to succeed himself.

The Department therefore proposes to inform Ambassador Sevilla-Sacasa, with White House concurrence, that the President’s schedule for the foreseeable future unfortunately does not permit him to extend an invitation to the Nicaraguan Chief of State. We would also extend to the Ambassador President Nixon’s warmest greetings and good wishes for both him and for his President.

Theodore L. Eliot, Jr.

1. Source: National Archives, Nixon Presidential Materials, NSC Files, Box 790, Country Files, Latin America, Nicaragua, Vol. I (1969–1974). Confidential. Drafted on June 4 by Eltz; cleared by Breen, Hurwitch, and Emil Mosbacher, Jr. (S/CPR). A typed note at the top of the cover page of the Department of State’s copy reads: “Approved per Memo from Mr. Watts to Mr. Eliot dtd 6/12/70.” The June 12 memorandum from William Watts is not published. (Ibid., RG 59, Central Files 1970–73, POL 7 NIC)
2. The Department of State recommended against extending a presidential invitation to President Somoza to visit the United States and cited concerns that Somoza might be planning to extend his term in office despite a constitutional ban on immediate re-election.